Mud Pie Puddle

Since she can wear a swimsuit (or go au natural), there’s no better time than summer to indulge your toddler’s innate desire to get messy. With a pile of dirt and toosl like plates, cups, and spoons, she can make the best mud pie ever (take a cue from this Kidspot.com tyke). Yes, it might seem a little gross, but the goal is relax and just let her play, says Patty Goffinet author of Go Outside and Play: Why Kids Don’t and Why They Should.